Conservator

Are you committed to preserving the history of railways and industrial heritage through skilled conservation? Do you enjoy direct involvement with large, complex collections and solving practical challenges to protect them for the future?

About us

In 2025, the National Railway Museum (NRM) in York celebrates 50 years of being open to the public and this also coincides with the 200th anniversary of the Stockton and Darlington Railway. To commemorate these momentous occasions, the Vision 2025 Masterplan seeks to deliver a programme of upgrades to both the National Railway Museum and sister museum, Locomotion at Shildon. This programme is made up of a series of ambitious and innovative projects known as the Vision 2025 Masterplan. This coincides with the transformation of the underused land around the museum in York by the York Central Partnership, aiming to power York's economy into the future.

As Conservator (Masterplan) you will be based in York, working at the National Railway Museum, but with the possibility to work on occasion at our sister site Locomotion, at Shildon. You will work closely with the other members of the Conservation & Collections Care team, based at NRM, Locomotion and potentially other SMG sites.

About the role

You will assist the Senior Conservator in planning and undertaking conservation work on rail vehicles and other collection items, to allow for their safe movement and display. You will ensure appropriate methodologies are used, including condition checking and appropriate documentation. In addition, you will undertake interventive object conservation and restoration where appropriate. You may be asked to advise on movement, display conditions, object and vehicle protection, installation, and object storage. On occasion you may oversee interns, students and volunteers.

You will ensure that these tasks are carried out in a safe and secure manner to comply with current legislation and following best professional practice. This role is based within the NRM Conservation & Collections Care team of the Collection Services Department.

This role is a fixed term contract until March 2028, advertised for 35 hours per week worked Monday to Friday and you will be based at the National Railway Museum in York.

About you

We are looking for a skilled and adaptable conservator with a passion for preserving industrial heritage, ideally with experience in large-scale railway or engineering collections. A relevant conservation qualification or equivalent field experience is important, as well as experience in addressing challenges and applying effective solutions in detailed projects.

With a background in remedial conservation of 3D objects and a sound understanding of UK Health and Safety practices, you will be skilled at working with collections-based hazards and managing the safe movement of large or heavy objects. Effective planning, organisation, and prioritisation skills are essential, as are clear written and verbal communication skills to engage effectively with colleagues, volunteers, and stakeholders.

Experience of using collections management systems such as MIMSY XG, image manipulation software, and preventative conservation approaches will be highly valued, as will a background in transport, technical, or modern materials collections, but are not part of the essential criteria for the role. Above all, you will share our values and commitment to creating an open, inclusive museum environment while safeguarding our collection for future generations.

Applying

View the Vacancy Information Pack listed under 'Attachments' on the vacancy listing on our website for more details about the role and the application process or click 'Apply Online' to submit an application.

What we offer

Working with a world-leading museum group that offers access to truly unique environments and collections, you'll benefit from the perks listed below, as well as full support for life events such as parental and adoption leave, sickness, and career breaks.

* Meaningful work. We're a mission-led organisation where the work you do supports us in Inspiring Futures.
* Career growth. We offer enhanced support with personal and professional development.
* Work/life balance. We offer 27 days annual leave in addition to bank holidays, along with flexible policies which support you and your home life.
* Health & Dental Insurance. Extra peace of mind, from day one.
* All our colleagues can access an employee assistance programme, access to the Unmind app, and other wellbeing support.
* Colleague networks. Our colleague-led networks are an informal forum for colleagues to come together to discuss topics of shared interest and lived experience. They create a space for people to exchange ideas, discuss best practice, socialise and build a sense of community.
* Enhanced contributory pension. To support you in saving for the future.
* Interest-free loans. When you need a little extra cash for life events or home improvements.
* Great discounts. Free entry to exhibitions, discounts in our shops, cafes, and access to other museums in the NMDC network.



Open for All is one of the Science Museum Group's five core values and sets out our important aspiration to be a place for everyone. We are working hard to understand our organisation better and to develop a culture that recognises and values different backgrounds, mindsets, skills, experience, knowledge, and expertise. By having greater diversity, we believe that we will be a stronger and better organisation, capable to continue to Inspire Futures.

Museum Website: https://www.aplitrak.com/?adid=aHJzZXJ2aWNlLjc0ODM2LjExMTkzQHNjaWVuY2VtdXNldW0uYXBsaXRyYWsuY29t